The pale morning light filtered through the curtains of the guest room. The world still seemed asleep, enveloped in a soft, almost fragile silence.
Axel slowly opened his eyes.
For a few seconds he stood still, simply listening to the steady breathing next to him.
Marlie was sleeping soundly, rolled onto her side, a stray strand stuck to her cheek. His face, relaxed and peaceful, no longer had any of the tension of the day before. Axel smiled despite himself.
He turned slightly towards her and, with infinite caution, raised his hand to touch her cheek with his fingertips. A slow, tender, almost reverential gesture. Marlie barely stirred, letting out a slight sigh, without waking up.
— Always so beautiful when you sleep... he murmured to himself.
Suddenly, a discreet vibration broke the calm.
Axel's phone lit up on the bedside table.
He frowned, picked up the device and saw the name appear.
Father.
His smile faded slightly.
Axel took one last look at Marlie, made sure she was still asleep, then slipped out of bed without a sound. He grabbed a few things and headed to the adjoining bathroom. Once the door closed, he turned on the shower to cover his voice.
The hot water started running when he answered the phone.
—Hello, father...
A short silence, then a deep, familiar voice answered.
— Axel… my son. Sorry to bother you so early.
Axel pressed his back against the cold tiles.
— No worries. Is there a problem?
A light laugh was heard on the other end.
— For me to talk to my son, there must be a problem?
Axel gave a tired smile.
— Paaaaapa…
"Okay, okay," his father sighed. Maybe...maybe I would need your presence too.
The tone had changed. More serious. Heavier.
Axel closed his eyes briefly.
- I see.
He took a deep breath.
— As soon as I'm free, I'll come. Promised.
"Very well, my son. I'm counting on you.
—As always.
— Take care of yourself, Axel.
"You too, father.
He hung up and stood still for a moment under the sound of the water, his gaze lost. After a few seconds, he turned off the shower.
On the other side of the door, Marlie was still sleeping, oblivious to the call...and what it said.